When talking about the Indonesian digital industry, e-commerce and fintech might be the top sectors that come up in the general public’s mind.

However, despite its lack of popularity, several startups working in the healthtech sector have sprung up in the country.

There are startups such as PesanLab, which offers a booking service for laboratory testing, or Homecare24 which offers on-demand home care services.

Even ride-hailing giant Go-Jek has branched out into the sector with the launch of drug delivery service Go-Med and an acquisition of Indian home healthcare marketplace Pianta.

In September 2016, Go-Jek took part in a US$13 million Series A funding round for HaloDoc, a telemedicine platform that President Joko Widodo once dubbed as “one of the four local startups that will leverage Indonesia’s position as ‘Digital Energy of Asia.’”

Later, Go-Jek eventually integrated its Go-Med service into the HaloDoc platform.

Now is the best time for Indonesian digital industry players –which includes both entrepreneurs and investors– to start looking more deeply into the healthtech sector.

Speaking at a panel discussion hosted by Indonesian association for venture capital investment (Amvesindo), hospital chain Bunda Medik Healthcare System (BMHS), and coworking space H-Cube in Central Jakarta, Kejora Ventures Founding Partner Sebastian Togelang stressed the importance of timing in the tech industry.

He gave an example of a startup in Germany which was founded by a personal friend many years ago. The startup offered a pizza delivery service, a wildly popular service in many parts of the world but the business failed to take off –simply because it utilises fax machines as a means to connect customers to food services.

“Market … and technological readiness are the basic requirements,” he said.

“The healthtech industry itself is relatively new … It has only started to take off around 2009-2010, and by the time the investment was only around US$1 million. By 2017, within half a year, the number has grown to US$6-7 billion … and may reach US$10 billion within the next few years. [Of this number] around US$1.5 billion will be allocated in Asia,” he explained.

Though the number of healthtech investment in Indonesia may only take a small percentage of it, Togelang believes that this is not a reason to give up on developing a healthtech industry in the country.

Setting up a telemedicine platform to connect patients in Papua (Indonesia’s easternmost province) to doctors in Java might be a great idea in principle, but from investor’s perspective, it is better for startups to start by solving the bigger issues.

“It will take one to two years to grow exponentially. The key is to have patience and start with services that are needed by a great number of people,” he stresses.

The situation on the ground

When it comes to potential, there are plenty of exciting opportunities in the Indonesian healthcare sector.

According to Dr. Ivan R. Sini, a renowned gynaecologist and a commissioner at BMHS, the Indonesian market is a “dynamic” one with the existence of its demographic bonus, universal healthcare system, and increasing purchase power.

“We used to see the Indonesian healthcare market as segmented, with the market having limited capacity to purchase good quality healthcare products. But recently the buying capacity has increased rapidly. Healthcare has become a primary need,” he explains.

“Hospitals need to be creative in trying to cater to the big number of patients, but at the same time, we also see this as an opportunity … For hospitals, instead of investing in R&D, it is better for us to engage the startup community, in order to build something that we can share,” he continues.

So what exactly are the challenges faced by the Indonesian healthcare sector?

One can write a book of all existing challenges, but dr. Gregorius Bimantoro, the founder of healthtech startup Atoma Medical, mentioned three of the most crucial that his company is aiming to solve: Disparity between the number of doctors available to treat every citizen, lack of access to information, and availability of products and services.

Atoma Medical aims to answer these challenges through the two platforms that it runs. The first one is TanyaDok, a Q& A platform runs by doctors and medical professionals, while the second one is ProSehat, an online marketplace for medicine and healthcare products.

TanyaDok has managed to secure 700,000 monthly page views and one million total users from web and community, while the ProSehat mobile app has secured 54,000 installations; 45,000 monthly web visit; with a network of 5,000 doctors.

Dr. Bimantoro admitted that this is not a very big number and that the startup is working on introducing their platform to a wider audience.

The issues are faced not only by patients seeking greater access to healthcare but also by medical professional themselves.

Kristina (like many Indonesians, she goes only by her first name) has worked as a midwife for more than 10 years, and she had seen first hand how medical professionals are struggling to make ends meet.

“Based on data from the industrial organisation, every year there are almost 100,000 graduates from midwifery and nursing schools. But almost 30 to 40 per cent of them is unemployed. In rural areas, there are midwives who work for 24 hours … And they only make between IDR300,000 (US$22) to IDR500,000 (US$37) per month despite having been in service for years,” she explains.

This concern led her to found Medis Online Indonesia, a platform that aims to connect patients to midwives and nurses for home care services. Through the platform, Kristina hopes that the nurses and midwives would be able to improve their living by getting extra income from home care services.

“We gather them in a training centre to improve their core competencies, their attitude,” she adds.

What startups need to do

There is a lot of homework left for tech startups when it comes to developing the healthtech sector in Indonesia.

One of the most important is handling trust issues, for example, patients’ reluctance to purchase medicines online for fear of counterfeiting.

“I think this is a learning process for all of us, especially with the fact that healthtech sector is in its early stage in Indonesia,” Dr. Bimantoro says.

In looking at the kind of solutions that might be beneficial for the Indonesian healthcare sector, naturally one would look at solutions that have been successfully applied abroad.

But Dr. Bimantoro warns that this is something that has to be done with caution, considering the importance of adapting the solutions to the situation on the ground.

“An interesting case study is about when Practo entered the Indonesian market … [They offer] a model that happens to work so well in India, but not so much when taken into the Indonesian market,” he says.

“Our team has also been trying, so many times, to validate such idea for the market. How can we make the process of making a doctor’s appointment easier in Indonesia? We are still struggling to do that. So it all comes down to the validation process,” he closes.

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This article was first published on e27 on September 1, 2017.

Image Credit: dodohawe / 123RF Stock Photo

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In today’s digital age, social media has woven itself into the fabric of our daily lives. We scroll through our feeds first thing in the morning, share snippets of our lives, and connect with friends and family worldwide. But as we post, like, and share, how often do we stop to consider the privacy implications of our online activities?

Let’s dive into how social media platforms collect and use our personal data and some tips on how to protect your privacy while staying connected.

The data collection frenzy

When you sign up for a social media account, you’re often required to provide some personal information—your name, email address, date of birth, and sometimes even your phone number. But the data collection doesn’t stop there. Social media platforms have become incredibly sophisticated in the way they gather information.

Here are a few ways they do it:

• Profile information: This includes everything you voluntarily provide—your bio, photos, interests, and more.
• Activity tracking: Every post you like, every comment you make, and every video you watch contributes to your digital footprint.
• Location data: Many apps track your location, often in real-time, to provide location-based services or ads.
• Device information: Details about the device you’re using, such as the operating system, hardware model, and even battery level, can be collected.
• Third-party integrations: When you log in to other apps or websites using your social media account, additional data can be harvested.

How is your data used?

So, what happens with all this data? Primarily, it’s used for advertising. Social media platforms are free to use because they make money from ads. By creating detailed profiles of users, they can serve targeted ads that are more likely to be relevant (and therefore clicked on).

Also Read: From grid to code: Why good cybersecurity will help deliver net zero

However, this data can also be used in other ways:

• Content personalisation: To keep you engaged, platforms use your data to curate the content you see.
• Selling data: In some cases, your data can be shared with or sold to third parties, sometimes without your explicit consent.
• Influencing behaviour: Social media platforms can use data to influence user behaviour, from suggesting friends to recommending products.

Tips for protecting your privacy

While it might seem like privacy is a lost cause in the age of social media, there are steps you can take to protect yourself:

• Review privacy settings: Regularly check and update your privacy settings. Limit who can see your posts and personal information.
• Be cautious with personal information: Avoid sharing sensitive information like your address, phone number, or financial details.
• Think before you share: Consider the long-term implications of your posts. Once something is online, it can be hard to remove.
• Use strong, unique passwords: Protect your accounts with strong passwords and enable two-factor authentication.
• Limit app permissions: Review and limit the permissions you grant to social media apps, especially concerning location and contact access.
• Be wary of third-party apps: When using third-party apps that connect to your social media accounts, ensure they are reputable and necessary.
• Regularly audit your digital footprint: Periodically review the information you have shared and remove anything that is no longer necessary.

In a world where social media is ubiquitous, understanding how your data is collected and used is crucial. By taking proactive steps to manage your privacy, you can enjoy the benefits of staying connected without compromising your personal information.

Remember, it’s your data, and you have the right to control it. Stay informed, stay cautious, and continue to enjoy the digital world responsibly.

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In recent years, Southeast Asia has become a hotbed for marketing innovation and creativity. The region’s marketers are not just keeping pace with global trends—they are leading a renaissance in upskilling that is reshaping the industry. This transformation is driven by factors such as rapid digitisation and unique cultural nuances that demand a localised approach.

Embracing digital transformation

The digital revolution is sweeping across Southeast Asia at an unprecedented rate. With over 400 million internet users, the region is witnessing explosive growth in e-commerce, social media engagement, and mobile internet usage. This digital surge is creating a fertile ground for marketers to hone their skills in digital advertising, content creation, and data analytics.

In 2023, a key trend was the significant investment in digital infrastructure. Governments and private sectors alike are pouring resources into improving connectivity and digital literacy. For marketers, this means a wealth of opportunities to experiment with new digital tools and platforms, driving the need for continuous learning and adaptation.

Emerging technologies like AI are acting as co-pilots, enabling marketers to execute tasks with unprecedented speed and efficiency. AI tools are massive time-savers, allowing marketers to focus on more meaningful work and making a greater business impact.

The past 18 months have been particularly challenging for marketers. The tech winter led to a wave of redundancies, and consumer spending declines affected B2C marketing efforts. Despite these setbacks, marketers have demonstrated remarkable resilience. The tech downturn forced them to concentrate on business growth and impact, becoming more adept at leveraging the tools and technologies at their disposal.

Today, marketers in Southeast Asia are better equipped than ever to face future challenges. As digital natives, they are proficient with a range of tech tools, setting themselves up for sustained success in a dynamic digital landscape.

Localised marketing strategies

Southeast Asia is a tapestry of diverse cultures, languages, and consumer behaviours. Marketers in the region are increasingly recognising the importance of hyper-localisation in their campaigns. The one-size-fits-all approach is giving way to tailored strategies that resonate deeply with local audiences while also incorporating lessons from other regions.

This trend goes beyond merely translating content into different languages; it’s about understanding the cultural nuances that influence consumer behaviour. For instance, marketers in Thailand might leverage the country’s rich tradition of storytelling, while those in Indonesia might focus on the communal aspects of marketing, reflecting the local emphasis on community and togetherness. This cultural intelligence drives marketers to develop a more profound understanding of their target markets, necessitating advanced skills in cultural research and ethnography.

Also Read: ESG frameworks and standards: Cutting through the complexity for private markets

Additionally, blending local insights with regional knowledge is crucial. Marketers benefit from cross-border networking within the community, learning from the strategies and successes of their peers in other Southeast Asian countries. This approach allows for the sharing of best practices and innovative ideas, further enriching localised campaigns and driving greater impact across the region.

Leveraging social commerce

Social commerce is booming in Southeast Asia, with platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok playing pivotal roles in shaping purchasing decisions. The integration of e-commerce functionalities within these social platforms has revolutionised the way consumers shop, seamlessly blending entertainment with convenience.

The surge of new channels and technologies has placed marketers at the forefront of this social commerce revolution. They are best positioned to scale these channels and leverage their full potential. Marketers are upskilling to harness this power, mastering the art of creating engaging content that drives conversions. This involves a deep understanding of social media algorithms, influencer marketing, and user-generated content. The ability to craft compelling narratives that resonate on social platforms is becoming a critical skill, pushing marketers to continuously refine their content creation and engagement strategies.

Rise of martech and adtech

The marketing technology (martech) and advertising technology (adtech) landscapes are rapidly evolving, providing marketers with sophisticated tools to optimise their campaigns. From AI-driven analytics to programmatic advertising, these technologies are enabling more efficient and effective marketing efforts.

In Southeast Asia, the adoption of martech and adtech is accelerating, driven by the need for precision targeting and personalised customer experiences. Marketers are investing in learning how to use these tools to gather insights, automate processes, and measure the ROI of their campaigns. The ability to navigate and leverage these technologies is becoming a cornerstone of modern marketing prowess in the region.

Commitment to continuous learning

A defining characteristic of the current marketing renaissance in Southeast Asia is the unwavering commitment to continuous learning. Marketers are increasingly aware that the rapid pace of change in the industry requires a proactive approach to skill development. This recognition has led to a surge in enrollment in online courses, workshops, and certification programs.

Also Read: These 5 marketing analytics platforms are taking the field into the future

However, it’s not just technical skills that are in focus. The importance of soft skills, networking, and mentorship is becoming more pronounced. Marketers, driven by inherent curiosity, understand that fluid roles and dynamic market conditions necessitate constant learning and seeking advice to grow and not be left behind. Building strong networks and finding mentors is crucial for personal and professional development, as they provide insights and guidance that help navigate the complexities of the marketing landscape.

Organisations are also playing a crucial role in fostering a culture of learning. Many companies are investing in training programs and encouraging their marketing teams to stay abreast of the latest trends and technologies. This emphasis on upskilling is not just about staying competitive but about driving innovation and excellence in marketing practices. By valuing both technical prowess and interpersonal growth, marketers in Southeast Asia are well-equipped to lead the industry into the future.

Looking forward

The marketing landscape in Southeast Asia is undergoing a profound transformation. The confluence of digital innovation, cultural diversity, social commerce, advanced marketing technologies, and a commitment to continuous learning is driving a renaissance in upskilling among marketers in the region. This evolution is not just about keeping pace with global trends but about leading the charge with innovative, localised strategies that resonate deeply with consumers.

NewCampus is leading this revolution, building and supporting the marketing community through a range of initiatives:

• Exclusive events: Regular sessions hosted by industry experts cover a wide range of topics, from best-in-class marketing strategies to the latest technological advancements.
• Networking opportunities: Access to both virtual and in-person events designed to facilitate meaningful connections and collaborations among members.
• Professional development: Courses and training programs aimed at enhancing skills and knowledge, with certifications available to bolster professional credentials.
• Interactive forums: A space for members to discuss challenges, share experiences, and seek advice from peers and industry leaders.

As Southeast Asia continues to grow as a major economic and digital hub, the demand for skilled marketers will only increase. Those who embrace this era of upskilling and adapt to the dynamic landscape will be well-positioned to drive the future of marketing in the region.

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Editor’s note: e27 aims to foster thought leadership by publishing views from the community. Share your opinion by submitting an article, video, podcast, or infographic.

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Pro Connect, one of the three Pro Membership plans offered by e27, is now more accessible than ever with a 50 per cent price decrease, making it easier and more affordable for entrepreneurs to access the essential tools, insights, and connections they need to grow.

Pro Connect has enabled startups to secure multi-million dollar funding through connections with investors they met on Pro Connect. We are thrilled to see these success stories and are committed to continuing to create opportunities for entrepreneurs to thrive.

Also Read: iStore iSend bags ‘7-figure USD’ to expand its logistics and supply chain biz to Thailand, Vietnam

By subscribing to Pro Connect, you not only gain access to essential tools, insights, and connections to boost your growth but also become part of a supportive network championing your success.

Why choose Pro Connect?

Pro Connect is designed to help entrepreneurs connect with active and verified investors, offering invaluable resources for startups aiming to boost their visibility and growth.

Here’s what an e27 Pro Connect membership includes:

Investor network

Gain access to a network of over 500 active and verified investors who are on the lookout for new investment opportunities. This feature alone can be a game-changer for startups in need of funding and strategic partnerships.

Ecosystem insights

Stay informed with curated insights from over 150 sources, including general tech media and hyperlocal channels. These insights are delivered bi-weekly, ensuring that you stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving industry.

Company visibility

Highlight your fundraising efforts in front of key ecosystem stakeholders. Members enjoy priority listing on e27’s Companies Fundraising widget, increasing the chances of catching the right eye.

Since its inception, e27 Connect has facilitated over 25,000 connections between startups and investors, proving its value in the tech ecosystem.

Embrace the community with new, lower pricing

We are thrilled to announce a significant price reduction for Pro Connect, making it more accessible to entrepreneurs at various stages of their journey. Here’s the new pricing structure:

• Monthly plan: Now, just US$19.90 per month, down from US$39.90.
• Quarterly plan: Back by popular demand! Costs US$16.63 per month, billed every three months.
• Annual plan: The best value at only US$16.58 per month, billed annually — a 50 per cent decrease from the previous pricing.

These competitive rates ensure that Pro Connect remains an affordable, high-value resource for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses. Existing Pro Connect members will receive an email from the team regarding the updated pricing and will be automatically renewed at the new rates.

Continuous improvement for a thriving community

Our commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and fostering a strong community doesn’t stop with pricing. We are continually working on improving the Pro Connect platform to provide even more value to our members. Stay tuned for upcoming announcements on new features and enhancements designed to help you make the most of your Pro Connect membership.

By subscribing to Pro Connect, you are not just accessing a suite of powerful tools and resources; you are joining a community championing your success. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect with investors, stay informed with vital ecosystem insights, and increase your company’s visibility.

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Octayne Green Fuels, a farm waste-to-energy startup in Singapore, has secured a pre-seed investment of US$525,000 from Wavemaker Impact.

This funding will be used to execute pilot projects, develop the company’s technical product and platform, and hire people.

Octayne converts underutilised waste biomass into a low-cost and scalable drop-in replacement for coal. By prioritising Net Zero, it strives to eliminate coal dependency in Southeast Asia without affecting the region’s development ambitions and encouraging the adoption of alternative fuels into existing infrastructure.

Also Read: A deep-dive into Wavemaker Impact’s decarbonisation strategies in SEA

To achieve this goal, the company will tap into the exceptionally large agricultural sector in the region, which currently generates over 400 million tons of post-harvest crop residue–to convert largely unutilised biowaste into a renewable and sustainable fuel source.

By raising public awareness about the need for sustainable farm waste management practices, Octayne also aims to address the growing problems associated with crop residue burning, which has seen cities in the region being blanketed with choking haze in recent years.

With a strategic focus on Southeast Asia’s US$800 billion energy sector market, Octayne will adopt a tiered approach, initially targeting Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam before expanding across the region.

With a vision to achieve US$100 million in revenue and mitigate 100 million tons of CO2 emissions, Octayne aims to become Southeast Asia’s leading sustainable fuel supplier over the next decade.

Rohan Vinekar, CEO and founder of Octayne said: “Solving the challenges of climate change in this region requires a different and untested approach given the unique circumstances faced by policymakers. By tapping into resources that are freely available and underutilised, Octayne will not only create a new market paradigm but also provide farmers with a sustainable waste management outlet.”

Also Read: Wavemaker Impact backs Elevate Foods that combats food loss and waste

“Southeast Asia is home to a diverse ecosystem of farming sectors–from annual crops like rice and corn to perennial ones like sugar cane. Octayne’s mission to convert post-harvest crop residue into feedstock for carbon-neutral bioenergy presents an exciting illustration of a company that takes advantage of the region’s agricultural profile to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors that continue to require fuel,” said Guillem Segara, Principal at Wavemaker Impact.

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Image Credit: Octayne

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Co-working spaces, unlike traditional office workspaces, offer flexibilities in convenience and timing allowing for remote workers and smaller companies to utilise them as office space. Some co-working spaces are available outside working hours, and unrestricted workers may be required to work outside the traditional working hours. These new co-working spaces are considered alternatives to the traditional workspace, encouraging inclusion and togetherness within companies.

In recent years, the users of co-working spaces have been SMEs and startup businesses, proving to be a majority of the users in the co-working space. It is estimated that the number of individuals working in co-working spaces is expected to reach no less than five million by the year 2024, showing an increasing trend of remote workers and an increase in the number of startup businesses. 

Despite the increase in demand for co-working spaces, Malaysia is still not in a position to fully utilise them due to its working culture. In this article, we will delve into reasons why Malaysian companies still fail to understand the impact of co-working spaces and therefore not properly utilising them.

Malaysia’s working culture is outdated

It is well documented that Asian countries have heavily adopted and accepted a culture of overworking. Naturally, Malaysia is susceptible to this as having one of the top overworked cities in the world. On average, Malaysians work 15 hours more than their contracted hours each week, stressing the negligence of work-life balance. Malaysia has a cultural expectation of working physically, encouraging face-to-face interactions to prove the employee’s commitment and hard work. This cultural expectation creates pressure for employees to prioritise work over personal time, leading to imbalances in life domains.

Also Read: Biotech co-working provider NSG BioLabs concludes US$14.5M financing round 

In Malaysian culture, there is a prevalent belief in the value of hard work and dedication, often reflected in the practice of entering the office early and leaving late. Malaysians, like many other Asian cultures, place a high value on a strong work ethic. This includes being punctual, dedicated, and committed to putting in the necessary time and effort to achieve professional goals. This belief has caused employees in Asian countries to suffer from overwork, leading to a decrease in productivity.

Malaysian companies are incapable of being flexible, causing negligence in employee work-life balance and prioritising company goals as compared to the well-being of their employees. Furthermore, because Malaysian companies cannot offer this benefit to their employees, gig work has appeared as a more appealing alternative for Malaysians as it allows them to be flexible with their working hours. This eventually causes a concern for a shortage of skilled workers in the future.

The precedent of routine behaviour is shown when employees show up to work at the office every weekday, following the same habits and lifestyle choices to prepare for work. This resistance to change causes companies in Malaysia to be inflexible with the working environment, causing dissatisfaction and discontent within the employee ranks unwilling to work, disrupting productive workflow. These cultures and policies must change if we as a society want to grow and evolve into an efficient working culture. So, how else can we change the stagnant culture of remaining in routine?

Co-working spaces offer flexibility and accessibility that traditional workplaces fail to provide

One of the biggest advantages of coworking spaces is the flexibility that they offer. With flexible membership options and the ability to work from anywhere, you can easily fit work into your schedule instead of the other way around. Meaning you can work on your terms without sacrificing your personal time and life.

Also Read: The co-working industry needs to rethink its role: The Great Room CEO Jaelle Ang

Co-working spaces also often prioritise work-life balance by offering amenities such as lounges, relaxation areas, and wellness programs. This holistic approach supports the well-being of employees, helping individuals to maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life.

Employees, especially in the tech field, can utilise co-working spaces if they wish to avoid distractions from home or office. Co-working spaces offer a professional environment, utilising high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and shared common areas for companies to interact and work together. Co-working spaces should also consider operating 24/7 to cater to working outside business hours. This allows for companies to work on odd hours not restricting themselves to the boundaries of official business hours.

Co-working space also provides options for accessibility, aiming to allow ease of transport and convenience to the co-working space. Accessibility is also an important factor in the working environment, as convenience impacts the employees’ productivity. By utilising co-working spaces, employees can avoid the pestering office politics and the trouble of commuting to work.

In conclusion, co-working spaces act as a solution to negate the negative working culture and the inflexible work-life balance by providing amenities and services that allow the employees to thrive.

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Editor’s note: e27 aims to foster thought leadership by publishing views from the community. Share your opinion by submitting an article, video, podcast, or infographic.

Join our e27 Telegram group, FB community, or like the e27 Facebook page.

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Jae H Park and his brother Jae M, originally from South Korea, grew up in Manila in the Philippines, where their father ran a series of manufacturing companies, from paper and garment textiles to polymer films.

As their family businesses grew and scaled, the brother-duo realised that environmentally safer alternatives to textile materials were the future and the only way to build a sustainable business.

So, in 2020, they set up Nibertex, which develops ‘per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances’ (PFAS)-free membrane solutions for the textile industry.

Also Read: Deep tech startup Nibertex secures funding for sustainable textile technology

“PFAS chemicals are known for their environmental and health risks. They are persistent in the environment and have been linked to various health risks. They do not break down and can accumulate over time in human bodies and ecosystems,” Jae H Park tells e27. “We at Nibertex have developed 100 per cent PFAS-free waterproof breathable membranes.”

Nibertex’s membrane technology utilises advanced polymer sciences to create films completely free from PFAS chemicals. According to Park, these membranes eliminate the use of these harmful chemicals, significantly reducing environmental pollution and potential health hazards associated with traditional waterproof textiles. They can achieve “superior performance” using safer, compliant chemicals while offering enhanced breathability and durability.

The deeptech startup uses advanced polymer blends and state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques to create micro-porous structures that allow water vapour to escape while blocking water entry. Park says this technology ensures high breathability and completes water resistance without PFAS, leading to safer, more comfortable, and environmentally friendly products.

The founder-duo encountered several challenges while building Nibertex. One major challenge was creating a membrane that matched the performance of traditional materials without PFAS. Through extensive R&D, collaboration with material scientists, and iterative testing, they eventually developed a proprietary blend of polymers that met traditional performance metrics without harmful chemicals.

A B2B venture, Nibertex supplies PFAS-free membranes to manufacturers and brands in the textile, automotive, and medical industries. It generates revenue through direct sales, long-term supply agreements, and collaborative projects with brands seeking sustainable materials.

Post-sales, the startup provides brands and manufacturers with technical support, performance data, and comparative studies showcasing the benefits of switching to PFAS-free membranes. “We also offer customisation options to meet specific application needs, facilitating an easier transition to sustainable alternatives,” Park reveals.

Nibertex sees opportunities for its membrane technology in electronics, where it can provide insulation and moisture protection; automotive, where it can be used as lightweight, durable liners; and construction, where it can be used as energy-efficient barriers.

“The versatility and superior performance of our membranes — combined with growing regulatory and consumer demand for sustainable products –position Nibertex for global adoption across multiple industries,” says Park, who is the COO.

Also Read: TômTex secures US$4.15M to make eco-friendly textiles

In April this year, Nibertex closed an oversubscribed funding round led by Foxmont Capital Partners and supported by a consortium of Southeast Asian families. The capital is being used for scaling up production capabilities, enhancing the R&D efforts to innovate further in membrane technology and expanding the domestic and international market reach.

“This will enable faster commercialisations of our PFAS-free products and support our expansion into new industries,” Park notes.

Nibertex aims to pioneer a significant shift in the textile and material manufacturing industries by providing an innovative solution to the environmental and health challenges posed by PFAS chemicals. The innovation has positioned the startup as a force to reckon with in the sustainable materials sector.

As industries increasingly prioritise green innovations, Nibertex stands at the forefront, championing a future where environmental responsibility and industrial performance go hand in hand.

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Image Credit: Nibertex.

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The housing finance sector in India plays a crucial role in the loan market, comprising a substantial portion of secured loan portfolios held by banks and other lenders. The market for home loans is continuously growing, indicating sustained progress in the housing finance industry.

As per the findings by Mordor Intelligence, the Indian market for housing loans is significant, with an approximate value of ₹22.4 lakh crore (US$270 billion). The market is projected to reach ₹40 lakh crore (US$480 billion) by 2026, representing consistent annual growth.

The primary players in the Indian housing loan market are the following types of institutions:

• Public and private sector banks: These banks provide home loans as part of their comprehensive banking services. They generally have a more extensive branch network and offer lower interest rates due to their large scale and government support, especially the public sector banks.  Key players in the Indian housing loan market include the State Bank of India (SBI), HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, and Axis Bank.
• Housing finance companies: These firms focus on offering home loans and are frequently viewed as more competitive in terms of interest rates compared to banks. Key HFCs in the Indian housing loan market comprise HDFC Housing Finance, LIC Housing Finance, Indiabulls Housing Finance, and L&T Housing Finance.
• Non-banking financial companies (NBFCs): An increasing number of NBFCs are providing home loans, offering a viable alternative for borrowers who may not meet the eligibility requirements of banks or HFCs. Accessibility for those with lower credit scores or untraditional income sources.
• Small finance banks (SFBs): These banks are a newer category of banks dedicated to offering financial services to underserved and unbanked populations. Some SFBs also provide home loans. They fill a critical gap in the market by servicing low-income groups and small businesses that might not be catered to by larger banks.

Growth trends in the housing finance market

Affordable housing plays a crucial role as a driving force in housing finance. The sector has witnessed impressive growth, with a total portfolio value amounting to trillions of crores up until now. This upward trend is predicted to continue due to the large population in need of homes. Moreover, the increasing urbanisation is also a significant factor. With more people moving to cities, there will be a higher demand for housing and the loans associated with it.

Also Read: The D&I advantage: How inclusion fuels growth in Vietnamese real estate

Also, when Real Estate Regulation and Development Act (RERA) came into existence, it transformed the Indian real estate sector. The Act has brought significant transparency to the housing market by requiring developers to publish all project details online, such as carpet area, amenities, approvals, and project timelines. This enables buyers to make informed decisions based on factual information, rather than just marketing claims.

As such, RERA encourages a standardised sales agreement format, removing hidden clauses and unjust terms that typically favour developers. Buyers now have a quicker and more streamlined process to lodge complaints against developers for delays, defaults, or quality concerns.

The government introduced numerous initiatives to narrow the gap between supply and demand in India’s housing sector. For instance, the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U) scheme offers financial aid to underprivileged urban families who are constructing or purchasing a home. It provides interest rate subsidies on home loans and serves the economically weaker sections (EWS) and low-income groups (LIG).

The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) scheme concentrates on rural housing, offering subsidies for the construction of new homes or the renovation of existing ones. It aims at rural households in the EWS and LIG categories.

The special financing window enables banks and HFCs to introduce special home loan products with simplified eligibility requirements and reduced interest rates, making homeownership more achievable. The relaxation of the External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs) guidelines has also simplified the process for developers to secure funds from overseas through ECBs.

This influx of capital into the real estate sector could potentially boost the housing supply. The government also provides several tax incentives for homebuyers, including deductions on home loan interest payments and principal repayment. This can substantially decrease the overall cost of purchasing a home.

Collaboration between banks and fintech boosting housing segment

Partnerships between banks and fintechs have significant potential to enhance inclusivity in the housing finance segment for consumers in India. Fintechs are proficient in leveraging alternative data sources such as rental payments, utility bills, and digital transactions to evaluate creditworthiness. This can be advantageous for individuals with limited credit history or those from the informal sector, who might be underserved by conventional banks that depend solely on credit scores.

Also Read: Unveiling the Power players: A look at last week’s investors in Southeast Asia, India

These organisations can also provide intuitive online platforms for loan applications, document uploads, and tracking application status, making the process easier, particularly for those new to traditional banking methods. They are also flexible and can design innovative loan products to meet specific requirements. This may involve flexible repayment plans, loan amounts tailored for smaller properties, or financing options for co-living arrangements.

How technology expands housing market potential

Technology can serve as a potent tool to unleash the full potential of India’s housing market. Property technology platforms can enhance processes for developers and builders. This encompasses online permitting systems, design and construction software utilising Building Information Modelling, and AI-driven project management tools. Such advancements can boost efficiency, lower costs, and potentially expedite project completion, resulting in a quicker growth in housing supply.

Emerging technologies such as 3D printing for housing and prefabricated modular construction can provide quicker and potentially more cost-effective methods for home construction. This could be especially advantageous for creating affordable housing units in remote areas.

Big data analytics can assist developers in pinpointing suitable locations for new housing projects by considering factors such as demographics, infrastructure availability, and market trends. This data-driven approach can result in projects that are more closely aligned with real demand.

The potential of the Indian housing loan market is unmistakable. With a burgeoning economy, increasing urbanisation, and government efforts to encourage homeownership, this market is set for substantial growth in the upcoming years.

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Choosing the right path for capital raising is crucial for any company’s growth and long-term success.

M&A vs IPO

To be successful in an IPO, a company must meet stringent quantitative and qualitative requirements to be listed on the stock market. IPOs are more suitable for companies expected to grow significantly from a macroeconomic and long-term perspective.

Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of Meta, mentioned that he has thought about M&A almost daily since starting the company. Ultimately, he chose an IPO because of the long-term management perspective and investor expectations, considering the transition from the existing Facebook social media platform business to the Metaverse market.

On the other hand, M&A is a good exit strategy for deep-tech or tech-based ICT service companies and trend-sensitive B2C consumer goods companies. For example, the emergence of generative AI, such as Apple’s smartphones and OpenAI’s ChatGPT, has created a new market that has never existed and exploded in growth. In this rapidly changing environment, M&A is not just a strategic option but a necessity for companies that want to launch new businesses and preempt the market quickly.

Korean startups making waves: Success stories

The first case is ‘Stylenanda,’ acquired by global cosmetics company L’Oréal. The company initially sourced clothing from the Dongdaemun market, a famous fashion market in Seoul, South Korea, and sold it online.

Then, it grew into a full-fledged business through its platform. Although it started with clothing, it expanded its business to various categories such as cosmetics, beauty contact lenses, and fashion and beauty books. It is best known for selling its beauty brand 3CE to L’Oréal for US$416 million.

The second company is the Woowa Brothers, which runs a delivery service platform called ‘Baedal Minjok.’ A German company, Delivery Hero, has been aggressively acquiring delivery platform companies for ten years, and the Korean “Woowa Brothers” were eventually acquired by Delivery Hero for US$4 billion.

Also Read: NFTs for fundraising: What you need to know before jumping on the bandwagon

Third, ‘Have & Be,’ famous for its Dr. Jart+ skincare brand, continuously contacted and succeeded in entering the US cosmetics multi-shop called ‘Sephora’ with every new product release. After promoting the company and reaching a US$1.7 billion enterprise value, they signed an M&A contract with Estée Lauder. Estée Lauder initially acquired 30 per cent of the shares and later acquired 70 per cent in the form of earnout (a method of purchasing additional shares based on business performance after acquisition).

Enhancing capital market communication for successful investment and cross-border M&A

Beyond practical and detailed preparation, companies should put significant effort into communicating with the capital market. Startups often raise investment in stages, from seed investment to Pre-A, Series A to Series C-D. In this process, it is essential to actively communicate with the capital market, i.e., investors, from the very beginning of the company’s operation to share its technology and business model.

Additionally, for cross-border M&A with overseas global companies, it can be beneficial to participate in startup and technology exhibitions related to your field, such as CES, SWSX, and MWC, to promote your company to global investors and global conglomerates. Participating in these exhibitions increases communication with overseas companies and promotes the company through media outreach, investing more effectively.

Navigating diverse M&A practices: Harmony, flexibility, and metrics

Starting with Japan, it tends to be very cautious regarding M&A. One of the most essential concepts in Japanese culture is the word “和” (harmony). Japanese companies prioritise business relationships over equity and post-merger returns, so M&A is often considered only after the collaboration phase. Large equity transactions involving a change of control are rare in Japan.

In China, it’s not impossible to sell and buy companies’ tangible and intangible assets. Still, the government owns these assets, so sudden changes or sanctions may occur depending on the government’s political direction.

Chinese companies often view contractual terms and conditions as flexible items rather than obligations at any time. Private equity firms in Hong Kong and Singapore usually handle M&A deals on behalf of the acquiring company, successfully closing the deal by completing the conditions.

The M&A process in the US is relatively straightforward due to the long history of capital markets. As the phrase “Money talks” describes the U.S. capital market, both sides focus on “money” numbers, such as the percentage of equity, the purchase price, and estimates of future profits after the acquisition. If you want to make a deal with investors or companies in the US, you need to focus on objective numbers and metrics to close the deal.

Understanding earnouts: A key strategy in US and European M&As

One essential concept to familiarise yourself with when conducting M&A with U.S. and European companies is ‘Earnout.’ For example, in the case of the beauty company Have & Be, Estée Lauder acquired only 30 per cent of the company.

Also Read: Unlocking the secrets to successful fundraising: 5 essential reads for startup founders

After observing the company’s operations and seeing that it met its revenue growth targets, Estée Lauder bought more shares. Eventually, Estée Lauder acquired 70 per cent of the company, including the shares held by Haveandbe’s majority shareholders, making the M&A possible.

The same was true for Woowa Brothers, acquired by the German company Delivery Hero. Delivery Hero initially purchased only the shares of financial investors, such as venture capitalists. They later purchased additional shares of Chairman Bongjin Kim through the earnout method. The earnout method is standard in global M&As in the Americas and Europe, so it’s worth knowing in advance.

Leveraging M&A strategies for sustained growth and global expansion

Companies like GE, Google(Alphabet Inc.), Microsoft, and Apple have grown into the companies they are today through M&A strategies, and they continue to run global businesses in new fields. In the past, companies used to take a greenfield approach to growth by investing their own CAPEX, building factories, hiring people, and growing their businesses individually. However, companies develop through various M&As, such as joint ventures, selling their own companies, spin-offs, and M&As with other companies.

Considering various M&As more actively can be a significant driving force for company perpetuation and growth and a breakthrough for global corporate growth, even in the current challenging capital market.

Special thanks to Chester Cheol Joong Kim, the Founder and Managing Partner of SU&Partners, Korea’s top-tier cross-border M&A Advisory and CEO of SU&Financial Investment,’ for his valuable contributions to this article.

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Southeast Asia’s (SEA) startup landscape has long been characterised by its robustness and potential for growth. With Singapore home to 20 unicorns and close to 300 startups anticipated to go public in Southeast Asia by 2030, the region’s entrepreneurial success is evident.

Yet, the reality is that startups today face a much more challenging landscape than ever before, with tech startups facing a continued drop in funding as one example in addition to a heightened need for startups’ effective adoption of emerging technologies to maintain competitiveness.

As a critical gateway to AI — from Generative AI to discriminative AI applications to deliver intelligent and incisive insights — the cloud remains a vital part of the puzzle for startups retaining their edge amid a dry funding landscape and saturated business environment.

Moreover, the scarcity of specialised tech talent, especially with AI evolving at such a rapid pace, makes it an urgent priority for startups to glean benefits from the cloud in enabling more efficient and advanced processes and, therefore, a faster go-to-market time for their solutions.

More AI, but where’s the talent?

AI, serving as a paramount catalyst for innovation with its potential to revolutionise industries and economies, has seen a ravenous appetite in SEA — with large corporations alongside startups across various industries embracing it in their workflows.

In fact, projections indicate that AI could inject a US$1 trillion boost to the SEA economy by 2030. With that, countries in the region are proactively integrating AI into pivotal sectors such as government, healthcare, and transportation.

Among these, startups emerge as prime beneficiaries of AI integration into their operations. By leveraging AI-driven solutions, employees can be liberated from repetitive tasks, streamline business processes, and cut labour costs, ultimately enhancing productivity. This transformative technology has reshaped business operations, enabling accomplishing more with fewer resources and at an accelerated pace.

Yet, the primary challenge confronting startups lies in acquiring the right talent to propel their growth in the AI domain. Despite recent tech industry layoffs yielding a pool of skilled workers, the demand for talent remains unmet.

Startups, in particular, face the daunting task of attracting top-tier talent while grappling with limited resources. Although unable to match the compensation packages of larger corporations, startups still necessitate talent of comparable, if not superior, calibre.

Also Read: Unlocking success: These 3 startups reveal their product development strategies

Moreover, alongside talent acquisition hurdles, the absence of mentorship and adequate support systems poses another significant obstacle for startups striving to scale and succeed. Mentorship not only fosters organisational value but also plays a pivotal role in talent retention, with research indicating that 43 per cent of professionals view access to mentoring as crucial for remaining with an organisation.

The value of cloud

For startups embarking on the implementation of AI solutions, the cloud emerges as an indispensable ally. As the paths of cloud and AI development converge, the cloud assumes a pivotal role in facilitating the efficient and scalable deployment of AI technologies.

By harnessing the cloud, startups can unlock access to a wealth of AI tools and resources. Cloud platforms offer ready-made AI solutions and managed services, empowering startups to seamlessly develop and deploy AI applications.

Through the utilisation of these cloud-based AI tools, startups are empowered to scale their operations efficiently, adapt to market changes swiftly, and maintain agility in an increasingly competitive landscape — without necessitating extensive in-house expertise. This dual benefit reduces the dependency on specialised AI talent while accelerating innovation.

At the same time, the cloud facilitates startups in tapping into talent pools beyond their local boundaries. This is particularly advantageous for countries like Singapore with limited AI talent, as they can leverage cloud-based collaboration tools to connect with a rich talent pool in countries like India.

This diverse talent pool brings varied perspectives and expertise to the development process, thereby augmenting the quality of AI solutions. Furthermore, cloud-based collaboration tools can streamline communication and project management across dispersed teams, enabling startups to fully leverage remote talent.

With unparalleled benefits, the cloud enhances efficiency, agility, and cost-effectiveness and optimises resources – accommodating hybrid working patterns that persist even in today’s post-pandemic era. After all, by leveraging the cloud to access talent beyond their immediate vicinity, startups can effectively address the AI talent gap and expedite their AI initiatives with a skilled and diverse workforce.

Considerations for a sustainable, data sovereign AI-driven future

Indeed, AI serves as a catalyst for innovation; however, businesses must adopt a sustainable and holistic approach to fully capitalise on its potential. More than ever before, sustainability has emerged as a non-negotiable aspect that must be integrated into business operations, even for startups. The undeniable reality persists: data centres contribute significantly to global carbon emissions, accounting for as much as five per cent.

Also Read: Southeast Asia startup boom: From fish farming tech to metaverse worlds

Now, with 73 per cent of AI workloads predicted to shift to the cloud by 2026, energy demands are set to soar due to the substantial increase in data generated and a surge in demand for computing power. Yet, it remains critical to note the role of data centres in supporting the region’s digital growth, especially as businesses increasingly leverage emerging technologies that are computationally intensive.

On the flip side, as global connectivity continues to intensify, the widespread transfer of personal data across borders becomes more prevalent. While countries like Indonesia have implemented their own data protection laws, necessitating businesses to adopt localised approaches to data storage and processing for compliance amid multi-country operations, jurisdictions with well-established privacy regulations, like Australia, continue to amend their laws to align closely with European privacy standards.

The complexities of data laws across regions often leave companies struggling with regulatory discrepancies, complicating compliance endeavours and hindering local customers from maximising the benefits of cloud services.

Choosing the right cloud provider

Startups aiming for success in their AI endeavours should prioritise cloud providers based on the alignment of their programmes with the specific needs and goals of participating startups. It is crucial for startups to meticulously assess and compare various programmes to ensure they select one that offers a comprehensive blend of resources, support, and opportunities tailored to aid their AI initiatives.

The ideal startup programme should not only grant exclusive technological access but also provide mentorship and support. This ensures that startups receive close technical guidance and access to specialised knowledge necessary to fully leverage tools like the cloud.

At the same time, startups should prioritise selecting cloud vendors that integrate sustainability across all aspects of their business ecosystem. Opting for cloud providers with greener data centres, which balance power and scalability while mitigating the environmental impact of emerging technologies, is essential.

Furthermore, cloud providers should offer businesses enhanced support through local computing and storage capabilities to meet evolving data compliance needs. This provides immunity to extra-territorial regulations, ensuring compliance with local data regulations. In today’s dynamic regulatory landscape, such measures enable businesses to align their data storage and usage practices with compliance standards, mitigating the risk of infringements and substantial fines.

Ultimately, while AI presents boundless opportunities for innovation and growth, its realisation hinges on a sustainable, collaborative, and inclusive approach. Particularly in today’s volatile job market, the integration of AI becomes increasingly critical for startups.

Thus, startups aiming to thrive digitally must prioritise building a robust and adaptable infrastructure. This not only enables smooth AI integration but also fosters collaboration and inclusivity across every aspect of their operations.

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Editor’s note: e27 aims to foster thought leadership by publishing views from the community. Share your opinion by submitting an article, video, podcast, or infographic.

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